11th Century BC
During this period, Israel was transitioning from a loose confederation of tribes to a centralized monarchy under King Saul.
King Saul was the first king of Israel, but his reign was marked by disobedience to God, leading to his eventual rejection by God in favor of David.
The events occur in Nob, a city of priests, and Gath, a Philistine city. Nob was near Jerusalem, while Gath was one of the five major Philistine cities.
The practice of providing sanctuary and sustenance to those in need was common, but David's deception to obtain the bread and sword highlights the tension between survival and religious law.
David
Anointed future king of Israel, fleeing from King Saul.
Ahimelech
Priest at Nob who provides David with consecrated bread and Goliath's sword.
Achish
King of Gath, whom David seeks refuge with.